Contemporary Forest Retreat Faces Both Sunrise and Sunset

The Lantern Ridge House sits atop a small wooded hill in Kerhonkson, New York. From its hilltop seat, it’s windowed walls face both sunrise and sunset. The creative team at Studio MM was challenged to design a contemporary forest retreat suited for a family and their guests.

“The primary goal of the project was to create a home that responds to its natural surroundings while catering to the flexible needs of a client that craves both private reflection and social engagement,” the architects said.

The core of the house is an open plan living area, which faces both sunrise and sunset. This gathering space is flanked by two wings which contain the private bedrooms for the owners and guests. The design scheme is minimalist to focus everyone’s attention out to the landscape beyond the glass.

Pine ceiling and dark siding were the materials used in order to blend the residence in its natural environment. According to the architects, the camouflage wears off after dusk. “At night, the typically obscured house becomes a beacon for passing cars and a guiding light for our homeward-bound clients.” [Photography credits: Studio MM]